Ren Shin Kan

About Us

Ren Shin Kan is a not for profit Aikido club which has been active in the Black Country for almost 60 years. Our mission is to support the local community by providing a safe space for people of all ages and abilities to study and progress at their own pace. Aikido practice is non-competitive and offers equal opportunities for all diverse groups to learn a traditional system of self-defence, gain confidence and enhance their physical and mental wellbeing. Our facilities are available for use by other organisations fostering collaboration and inclusivity. Junior and Senior classes are available. We also run classes in Iaido, Pilates and Qi Gong. Join us and learn this exciting, dynamic and traditional martial art from Japan.

Club History

Ren Shin Kan was founded in early 1968 by William (Bill) Smith. At that time the dojo was affiliated to the Aikikai Of Great Britain which was headed by K.Chiba Sensei, a direct student of the Founder of Aikido itself, Morehei Ueshiba (also known as O Sensei). Our principal instructors are Gordon Jones and Phillip Smith Senesi’s who studied under K.Chiba Sensei for many years. Both are accredited 7th Dan Aikikai Shihan (master teachers) in their own right. Our dojo is unique in having two resident Aikikai Shihan and is also one of the few permanent Aikido dojo’s in the UK. In addition Ren Shin Kan is the headquarters of the United Kingdom Aikikai and is affiliated to Aikikai Foundation in Tokyo. All grades up to 4th Dan can be awarded in house and are internationally recognised.